Reviews problems with research in determining the effectiveness of distance education, and presents a systems model to be used as a framework upon which researchers can build. The telecommunications in instruction model incorporates learner variables, instructor variables, presentational elements, course content elements, and distance education…

In the area of aptitude-treatment interaction (ATI) research, an outcome variable which has received relatively little attention is differential student learning times, or students' relative learning efficiency on one treatment as opposed to another. Although it has been argued that learning times are not appropriate variables for evaluating…

Over 150 papers and articles were examined, and interviews with noted computer-based instruction (CBI) professionals were conducted to obtain information about CBI and the research evidence. Focus was on four main areas of CBI research--costs, learning achievements, individual differences, and student attitudes. Consistent empirical evidence did…